Guatemala may not get the same attention as its neighbors when it comes to surf, but we like our lineups uncrowded. The Pacific Coast is lined with reliable, powerful beach breaks and jetty points. The interior holds colonial towns, volcanoes, and one of Central America’s most pristine mountain lakes. Start with El Paredón, then head inland.
Guatemala travel and Guatemala surf
Guatemala doesn’t have the highly developed surf tourism of Costa Rica or El Salvador — that’s half the appeal. Antigua and Lake Atitlán are already must-stops for backpackers. Getting around is easy, even with surfboards. The waves rival southern neighbors, and El Paredón often has hollow beach-break barrels with no one out.
Antigua
Cobblestone roads, pastel corners, and colonial architecture in the shadow of volcanoes. Cool mornings, comfortable days — wander, hit the artisan market, or eat your way through a world-class food scene.
Volcán de Fuego
From Antigua, hike Volcán Acatenango for views of erupting Volcán de Fuego. The day hike is about 11 miles round trip to just over 12,000 feet. The overnight hike camps for sunset and pushes to the 13,040-foot summit before sunrise.
Lake Atitlán
Over 50 square miles high in the Sierra Madre, bordered by seven Mayan towns, many only reachable by boat. Party in Panajachel, take Spanish class in San Pedro, or shop the markets of San Juan la Laguna.